My journey away from involuntary treatment and Coercion

My son has schizophrenia. As a parent, I am all too familiar with the concerns we have for our family members, particularly those who do not believe they need help. These concerns are valid and real and continue to be a challenge for families and the behavioral health system.

For several years, I have taken a personal interest in the topic of Assisted Outpatient Treatment (AOT). Most states in the US have this legislation, which means it has been widely studied and discussed.  While many studies will clearly outline the financial benefits to states in public service cost reduction, few studies focus on the efficacy for the individual. As a parent, what would be the point of forced treatment, unless it would actually work? The evidence for AOT being the moment that puts an individual on the path to recovery is murky at best. It is not a magic bullet that helps individuals consistently find their path to recovery. And there are many, many more stories about the trauma experienced by individuals when subjected to involuntary treatment.

We can do better

Most of us don’t like being told what to do. Clinicians, across the board, are often paternalistic, telling people what they should do. And often becoming annoyed when their instructions are not followed. 

Maybe you or your loved one has had a bad experience with the system. Been taken away in handcuffs in a police car. Been told that certain things are true about you that you cannot fathom. 

Learn more about Enduring Connections – a compassionate approach for both family members and their loved ones.